Brett Ratten's appointment as St Kilda's permanent senior coach is "imminent", according to AFL Record's Ash Browne.

Brown is reporting that an announcement is expected over the next 48 hours.

The 48-year old took over as caretaker after Alan Richardson was sacked mid-season, helping guide the club to three wins from six games.

Ratten previously coached Carlton from 2007-2012 where he had a 50 per cent winning record from 120 games.